Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

We have a quorum. The committee is meeting today in public session for its inaugural meeting. We will go into private session shortly to discuss procedural matters and a work programme.

First, I congratulate all members on their election in the general election in February and in the subsequent Seanad election. I congratulate all of them on their appointment as members of the committee. The committee has a very important role to play in supporting the work of the Dáil and the Seanad, in particular by engaging with the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation and his Department and bringing our concerns to them.

Covid-19 makes the work of this committee more important but if we work positively, I believe our actions will have a positive effect on the lives of workers and many of the businesses that employ them. While our work will follow the work of previous committees, it will be very much influenced by the Covid-19 pandemic, both in respect of policy issues and the manner in which we conduct our business. I will try to be as fair as I can be and impartial towards all members of the committee and to witnesses who attend and assist us in our work. I believe strongly in a united approach involving mutual respect where members and witnesses are given the greatest opportunity to contribute and to feel that their efforts are worthwhile while yielding the best results. I trust all members of the committee will work with me to ensure the committee works effectively and safely in that regard.

I propose that we go into private session. Is that agreed? Agreed.